Young Adult Cancer & Mental Health

In this episode of Beyond the Clinic: Living Well with Melanoma, host Dr. Samantha Siegel sits down with Dr. Victoria Wytiaz, a medical oncologist at the University of Michigan, to explore the often-overlooked realities of life during and after a melanoma diagnosis for adolescents and young adults (AYA).

Together, they discuss the unique challenges this age group faces—from navigating identity, independence, and relationships to coping with body image changes, fertility concerns, and the long-term psychosocial impact of cancer. This conversation moves beyond treatment to examine what it truly means to live with and beyond melanoma.

Dr. Wytiaz shares insights from her clinical work and research, highlighting the importance of addressing “invisible” aspects of care—like emotional well-being, intimacy, and survivorship transitions—that are often left out of traditional oncology conversations. The episode also explores gaps in support systems, the role of community and peer connection, and how healthcare providers can better meet patients where they are.

This thoughtful and honest discussion offers validation, perspective, and practical insight for patients, caregivers, and clinicians alike.

About our Guest: Victoria Wytiaz, M.D., M.A. Dr. Wytiaz is a medical oncologist with a clinical focus in bone and soft tissue sarcoma. Here research interests include improving mental health outcomes, such as body image distress and anxiety, in adolescents and young adults with cancer, both during active treatment and throughout the survivorship period.